By Udoh Umoh
The Police Command in Akwa Ibom says it has arrested a suspected vehicle thief and recovered the vehicle in a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement in Uyo on Wednesday.
John said operatives of the command on Sunday at about 1730hours, arrested a male suspect, aged 36 years.
She said that the operatives during the operation recovered one blue Daihatsu Hijet Mini Bus with Registration Number KMK 625 ZT, suspected to have been unlawfully taken from its rightful owner.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect, a commercial driver based in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, was entrusted with the vehicle under a hire-purchase arrangement.
“However, in breach of the agreement, he allegedly absconded with the vehicle without the knowledge or consent of the owner and relocated it to Uyo with the intention of disposing of it,” she said.
According to her, investigation is ongoing to conclude the case and facilitate the prompt return of the vehicle to its lawful owner in accordance with due process.
She reiterated the command’s unwavering resolve to sustain intelligence-driven policing and ensure that criminal elements find no refuge within Akwa Ibom.
The police spokesperson urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with timely, credible, and actionable information.
The PPRO assured residents that all information received would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
